New auto ratings system is mulled; may rank safety for seniors

8:36 PM,
Apr. 4, 2013

Written by

Angela Greiling Keane
Bloomberg News

Auto-safety regulators plan to change the rating system for new cars sold in the U.S. to keep up with advances in technology and better protect older drivers and passengers.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in a Federal Register posting Thursday said it may create a silver rating system for how well vehicles protect older occupants in crashes. It also may consider how rear-seat passengers and pedestrians fare in crashes and is looking at new test procedures for electric vehicles.

While brands such as General Motors' Cadillac are seeking younger buyers, NHTSA ...